Page:Pyrotechnics the history and art of firework making (1922).djvu/138

 EXPERIMENTS WITH FIREWORKS AT NUNHEAD,

(In a Field near Messrs. C. T. Brock & Co.'s Firework Manufactory,)

On, April 4th, 1872.

THE OBJECTS OF THE EXPERIMENTS ARE—

1. To determine if the distance between Firework Sheds, as at present laid down by law, viz. 20 yards, is amply sufficient to prevent an explosion in one shed communicating to other sheds situated at the statutory distance.

2. To determine the liability of Fireworks to ignite by concussion or friction.

3. To determine the liability of Fireworks to explode en masse if from any cause they should be accidentally ignited.

4. In the event of Fireworks exhibiting a liability to explode, to determine the area of destructive effect of such explosion.

5. To determine, with reference to the conclusions which may be arrived at as to points 3 and 4, the degree of danger which attends the transport of Fireworks by rail, barge or other public conveyance.

6. To determine at what distance from dwelling houses stores of Fireworks may be safely established.

PROGRAMME OF EXPERIMENTS.

1. Explode 30 lbs. of loose Firework Composition in a Shed, another Shed being 10 yards distant. Screen between.

2. Explode 30 lbs. of Composition in Fireworks in a Shed, another Shed being 10 yards distant. Screen between.

3. Ignite a Box of 1/4 cwt. of mixed Ordinary Fireworks in open air

4.  Ditto       ditto       ditto     in contact with another Box of ditto.

5. Place a Box of 1/4 cwt. of ditto in a bonfire.

6. No. 3 repeated, with mixed Fireworks bought over the Counter.

7. No. 4           ditto               ditto.

8. No. 5           ditto               ditto.

9. Hammer various sorts of Fireworks—Wood on Wood.

10.  Ditto       ditto               Wood on Iron.

11.  Ditto       ditto               Iron on Iron.

12. Run a Railway Truck over some of the different sorts.

13. Repeat such of above as may seem necessary with "Parlour Fireworks."

V. D. MAJENDIE, R. A.,

H.M.'s Inspector of Gunpowder Works, &c.